THIERRY Small says “it’s an unbelievable feeling” to sign for Saints after penning a three-year deal with the club.

The 17-year-old departs Everton with a big reputation for such a young man, and is hotly-tipped as one of the biggest defensive prospects in the country.

He will provide cover for Frenchman Romain Perraud but could first feature in David Horseman’s B team, to get a feel for the playstyle and expectations.

But Small insists he’s delighted with the move in his pursuit for first-team football, telling the club: “It’s an unbelievable feeling.

“A big moment for me and my family, especially to join such a family-orientated club. It’s an honour to be here and I can’t wait to get started.

“It’s a real great honour to play here and play under Ralph (Hasenhuttl) and I’m grateful to be here.”

Small has revealed how he visited the club before signing, a decision which helped persuade his thinking: “The people when I came to visit the club, everyone was so friendly and so nice.

“It’s such a big place and a great city when I came to visit, and I thought this is the best place for me to develop as a player and reach new levels to my game.”

Saints face an EFL Cup test against Newport County on Wednesday August 25, although it is unclear if Small will be involved with Hasenhuttl’s first-team immediately.